For almost two years I've worked on a case where there are three children in two different foster care placements - they are the 8th, 9th and 10th children of a drug-addicted mom, all born drug-exposed. The natural father of two of the children has been working to gain custody of his kids and has done everything the court has asked him to do; he's taken parenting classes, he has no contact with the natural mother, he gets tested for drugs regularly (has always been negative), and he travels three hours by bus twice a week to see his children.
Recently he was hospitalized, due, I was told, to a recurrence of a cancer he'd had in the past. On Tuesday this man died. Very sad. He was a good man. He wasn't trying to shirk his responsibilities, he was trying to correct past mistakes and take care of his children. It's a heartbreaking ending to this situation. Fortunately all three children are in good homes and the foster moms will keep them safe. That's what I work to ensure.
I've been a CASA volunteer for more than seven years and have found it vital and rewarding work. This is the perfect volunteer opportunity for people who are looking to make a difference in the life of a child.
If you're interested in getting involved call CASA of Cook County at 312-433-4928. Or look up the CASA office in your area. It's a nationwide organization.
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